Oncologists Say: Stop Microwaving Food in Plastic To Reduce Cancer Risk
It can feel like everything is a cancer risk these days, even items that used to be considered “good” for our overall health (we see you, red wine). However, it goes without saying that “cancer” is a scary word, and the steady stream of information on social media and in headlines about risks can become a lot to handle.
“Understanding cancer risk can feel overwhelming, but learning which everyday habits may contribute to risk helps people make practical and empowering choices,” points out Dr. Brian Helfand, MD, Ph.D., a urologic oncologist and the division chief of urology at Endeavor Health.
This information is especially vital when you consider that we can’t make empowering choices about certain cancer risk factors.
“The number one risk factor for most cancers is age, and this is something that cannot be controlled,” reports Dr. Adeel Khan, MD, MPH, MS, a hematologist/oncologist and epidemiologist at the University of Texas Southwestern Medical Center. “Other factors, such as genetic predisposition and underlying health conditions, are also not modifiable in today’s age.”
In short, the advice to “control the controllables” holds for reducing cancer risk. In terms of foods you eat, you may have heard that processed meats can increase your likelihood of developing some cancers. Yet it’s not just what you eat, but how you prepare it, including microwaving.
“Typically, cancer develops over many years, and repeated exposures to harmful substances can accumulate in the body over time,” Dr. Helfand adds. “By focusing on modifiable behaviors such as food preparation and storage, individuals can reduce potential risks without fear or drastic lifestyle changes.”
Speaking of which, oncologists are begging you to quit one microwave shortcut because it might contribute to cancer risk. Giving it up won’t require anything drastic, either. Here’s what you need to know.
geargodz/Getty Images
(geargodz/Getty Images)
Stop Making This One Common Microwave Mistake ASAP, Oncologists Say
Oncologists are begging people to stop microwaving food in plastic containers. “When plastic is heated in the microwave, chemicals such as BPA, phthalates or styrene may leach into food, particularly if the plastic is old, scratched or exposed to high heat or fatty foods,” Dr. Helfand tells Parade. “Repeated exposure to these substances over time may disrupt hormones or contribute to cellular damage.”
Indeed, research, including from 2024, suggests that microplastic exposure can contribute to cancers, including lung and colon cancer.
Dr. Khan states that the issue with heating food in plastic stems from how microwaves operate in the first place.
“Microwaves work by emitting radiation targeting and exciting water molecules, and this heats up food, as most food has a high water content,” he shares. “However, when this occurs in the presence of plastic, leeching of the plastic as small particles, microplastics and nanoplastics, directly into the food occurs.”
Dr. Helfand understands why people take this “microwave shortcut.”
“Many people microwave plastic simply because it is convenient and quick,” he says. “Leftovers are often stored in plastic containers. In addition, takeout food packaging is commonly reheated, and some individuals assume that ‘microwave-safe’ labeling means it is completely risk-free.”
Dr. Helfand adds that many people may not know about the potential for chemical leaching, which may contribute to cancer odds. To be clear, we’re still learning a lot about the risks of microplastics.
“While the exact risk from occasional exposure is unclear, minimizing heat-related chemical migration is a prudent approach,” he explains.
Related: The Popular Cooking Method Oncologists Are Begging People To Limit
Chemicals in Plastics Linked to Cancer
Dr. Helfand reports that several chemicals in plastics have raised some potential concerns of cancer risks, including:
-
Bisphenol A (BPA). He shares that BPA’s purpose is to harden plastics and line food cans. Yet he notes that data show that BPA can mimic hormones, such as estrogen. It can potentially interfere with hormone signalling.
-
Phthalates. Dr. Helfand says that companies will add phthalates to make plastics, especially wraps and containers, more flexible, but that this may disrupt hormone function.
-
Styrene. This chemical is used in foam containers and packaging. “Styrene can migrate into food when heated and is considered a possible carcinogen based on occupational and animal studies,” he says.
-
Per- and polyfluoroalkyl substances (PFAS). You may hear these referred to as “forever chemicals,” and Dr. Khan shares that you can find them in food liners because they resist water, stains and impurities. “PFAS, however, are linked to kidney, testicular and other cancers.”
Remember, the data is new and evolving. The aim is to take what we do know and use it to operate from a place of empowerment rather than fear.
Related: ‘I’m an Endocrinologist—This Popular Smoothie Ingredient Sends Blood Sugar Soaring’
What To Do Instead of Microwaving Food in Plastic
First things first, don’t spiral. “If you have been microwaving plastic, there is no reason to panic,” Dr. Helfand explains. “Cancer risk is driven by cumulative exposure over many years rather than occasional behaviors.”
Still, he suggests approaching heating food differently. “Although there is no clearly defined safe exposure level, reducing exposure moving forward is a sensible and effective step,” Dr. Helfand advises. “Small changes made consistently over time can meaningfully lower potential risk.”
He shares that safer alternatives to microwaving plastic include:
-
Transfer food to a glass, ceramic or microwave-safe stoneware dish before heating.
-
Using a microwave-safe lid, parchment paper or a paper towel instead of plastic wrap can help prevent splattering.
-
Not reheating food in takeout containers, margarine tubs or disposable packaging.
-
Allowing hot foods to cool slightly before storing them in plastic
Speaking of storage, Dr. Helfand suggests using glass or stainless steel containers to stash leftovers (these materials are also safer for water bottles).
“Choosing fresh or frozen foods instead of heavily packaged items, avoiding hot liquids in plastic bottles and replacing scratched or worn containers can also help [lower exposure],” he says.
Up Next:
Related: ‘I’m an Oncologist—This Is the One Cancer Myth I Wish Would Go Away’
Sources:
-
Association between wine consumption and cancer: a systematic review and meta-analysis. Frontiers in Nutrition.
-
Our Current Understanding of the Human Health and Environmental Risks of PFAS. EPA.
This story was originally published by Parade on Mar 19, 2026, where it first appeared in the Health & Wellness section. Add Parade as a Preferred Source by clicking here.
First Appeared on
Source link
